Apple Maps will now provide COVID-19 travel advice and information for airports. Throughout last year, several tech companies developed new ways to keep track of the latest health information related to the coronavirus pandemic. From social distancing rules to vaccination centers, there is already plenty of information available to users, but this latest improvement should specifically help those trying to navigate their way around the pandemic and post-pandemic world.
Last year, travel virtually stopped all over the world. With differing social distancing and lockdown rules everywhere, it became important to become aware of policies and health information in real time. To help with this, Apple and Google provided ways for users to identify COVID-19 symptoms and used contract tracing information to help medical organizations better track the spread. Companies have also worked on additional ways to help phone users, including reminders on the importance of washing hands. Today, the world has moved to a different stage in the pandemic, and as vaccinations are steadily rolling out, the world is starting to open up to global travel once again.
The Airports Council International (ACI) announced that its database of COVID-19 health protocol data for airports is now available in Apple Maps, allowing users to easily search any airport's health rules. Users will be able to view information like whether an airport enforces social distancing, whether there are e-gate opportunities, or whether travelers need to quarantine after arriving at their destination. Alternatively, phone users can also download the ACI's Check & Fly mobile app to get similar information provided directly by airports.
In The Know Before Traveling
Apple Maps users can access the information on an iPhone, iPad, or a Mac, and can maximize the information by searching for specific airports and then taking notes of any of the specific protocols or rules before travelling. For those without an Apple device, the ACI also offers the option to access the service and similar granular information through a web browser on a device.
Despite the constant rollout of the vaccine, it still remains imperative that travelers follow the same safety protocols as they did in the past, but these information tools should help ensure travelers are not caught off-guard by any rules or restrictions put in place by a specific airport. It is worth noting that these tools do come with an important caveat. As airports must register for the service themselves, there might be some gaps in the information that's available, whether through Apple Maps or directly via the ACI.
Source:Â ACI